Published date: April 27, 2025
A Gentle Place in Kobe That Makes You Want to Say 'I’m Home'
Room Type Stayed
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Experience of the stay
Every time I visit Kobe, I think to myself, “I end up coming back here” — that's "Kobe Guesthouse Mankaku".
A guesthouse I’ve loved and visited many times since discovering it a few years ago. This time, I want to reflect on that warm Kobe time spent based at Mankaku.
Whether you’re in the midst of travels or just want a little break from daily life, Mankaku gives a reassuring feeling of having 'come home'.
It’s a guesthouse that becomes 'irresistibly lovable'. A place so important that the reason for visiting Kobe turns into "I want to stay at Mankaku".
I want to go there anytime I feel like it.
Experiences during the trip
Day 1: A Day at the Zoo and Sweet Moments at Mankaku
Leisurely stroll at Kobe Oji Zoo
Visiting the classic spot "Oji Zoo" where you can also meet pandas. It was like returning to childhood as I leisurely wandered around, enjoying both friendly animals and impressive beasts.
Lunch at Naniwa Noodle Shop
Hearty lunch at "Naniwa" near the zoo. The crispy cutlet was wrapped in egg, perfectly complementing the rice. The cozy atmosphere loved by locals was lovely.
Chiffon Cake Set at Cafe Donie
In the afternoon, I took a break at Cafe Donie. A set of fluffy chiffon cake and coffee. Spending quiet time in the antique-style interior was very pleasant.
Check-in at Mankaku to Relax
In late afternoon, I checked into Mankaku. Despite this being my nth visit, the warm entrance makes you feel like saying "I’m home" along with the cozy lounge. I unpacked and took a deep breath.
Day 2: Chitchatting, Books, and Favorite Lunch Spots
Sandwich Morning at Coffee Specialty Rico
I had breakfast at the nearby "Coffee Specialty Rico". The classic set of sandwiches, boiled eggs, and fragrant coffee was irresistible. A luxurious start to the day alongside the morning streets.
Working & Chatting at Mankaku’s Lounge
I returned to my lodging to work a little in the lounge. The environment was quietly focused but the occasional chitchats with the staff were great accents. The space where "welcome back" and "how have you been?" naturally bounced around felt very comforting.
Stylish Lunch at Cafe Etoile
For lunch, I stretched a bit further to "Cafe Etoile". I enjoyed a colorful lunch in a space with good taste. It was full of vegetables and felt good for the body.
A Break at Secondhand Bookstore World Ends Garden
I stopped by the secondhand bookstore "World Ends Garden" after that, which felt like a treasure chest of quiet moments. Meeting a book can make that day a little special.
Dinner at Nanya with Tempura Rice Bowl Set
At night, I went again to "Nanya". This time it was the tempura rice bowl set. The crispy tempura was abundant, giving me a different kind of satisfaction than lunch.
Day 3: Hot Sandwiches, Books, and a Little Treat
Hot Sandwich & S’mores at OUTDOOR SPACE Iribi
On the final day, I had breakfast at "OUTDOOR SPACE Iribi". Enjoying hot sandwiches with a camping vibe and s’mores that melt in your mouth warmed my heart in the morning.
Lunch at Western Food Restaurant Nanjaro
The western-style lunch at "Nanjaro" was wonderfully hearty and homey. Simple yet meticulous, it was the perfect dish to finish my journey.
Tea at CHARMANT Cafe & Coffee Roastery
Lastly, I spent a soothing tea time at "CHARMANT Cafe & Coffee Roastery". I indulged in coffee carefully brewed by the roaster, soaking in the pleasant space and savoring the afterglow of my journey.